Harare, (New Ziana) – Zimbabwe and Namibia have taken significant steps to deepen bilateral relations following the official visit of Namibian President Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah on 20 May this year.

The visit marked a pivotal moment in the diplomatic and economic cooperation between the two southern African nations.

Speaking during a post-Cabinet media briefing on Tuesday, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere, confirmed that Cabinet had received and noted the report on President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s visit, which President Emmerson Mnangagwa hosted at State House.

“The two leaders reaffirmed their countries’ shared commitment to advancing mutual development through deeper collaboration,” he said.

“This was demonstrated by the decision to elevate the existing Joint Permanent Commission on Cooperation (JPCC) to a Bi-National Commission (BNC), which signifies a more robust and structured platform for engagement.” Dr Muswere said both governments agreed to fast-track the implementation of various instruments of cooperation aimed at strengthening socio-economic ties.

Key among these is Zimbabwe’s commitment to join the Trans Kalahari Corridor, a vital transport and trade route linking Namibia and other southern African countries.

“This corridor will significantly enhance trade and logistical integration between Zimbabwe and Namibia, as well as the broader Southern African region,” Dr Muswere said.

In addition, Zimbabwe pledged to ensure that the Walvis Bay Dry Port, a strategic trade facility in Namibia, becomes fully operational.

The move is expected to streamline trade flows and reduce logistical costs for Zimbabwean exporters and importers. Dr Muswere said Zimbabwe will also join the Walvis Bay-Ndola-Lubumbashi Development Corridor, which connects Namibia, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

“This corridor is a vital artery for boosting regional trade and economic integration,” he said.

The outcomes of President Nandi-Ndaitwah’s visit underscore the shared vision of both Zimbabwe and Namibia to build resilient economies through strategic partnerships and regional cooperation.

“This is a clear reflection of our commitment to enhancing economic diplomacy and creating tangible benefits for our peoples,” said Dr Muswere.

The visit by President Nandi-Ndaitwah, her first to Zimbabwe since assuming office, signals a promising chapter in relations between the countries and sets the stage for accelerated progress on joint initiatives.

New Ziana